The Ultimate Guide to Sensory Play for Kids

What is Sensory Play?

Sensory play refers to activities that stimulate a child’s senses — touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing - as well as movement and balance. It helps children explore and understand the world around them in a hands-on, interactive way.

Examples of sensory play include:

• Playing with sand, water or rice.

• Exploring textures like slime or playdough.

• Using sound-based toys like shakers or musical instruments.

These experiences encourage curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills while strengthening brain connections.

Key Benefits of Sensory Play

Sensory play offers a wide range of developmental advantages for children. Here are the top benefits:

Brain Development

Sensory activities help build neural pathways, boosting memory, reasoning and cognitive skills. By exploring new textures, sounds and visuals, children develop stronger problem-solving abilities.

Social and Emotional Growth

Group sensory play encourages communication, sharing and teamwork. It’s also a great way for children to express feelings and build self-confidence.

Fine Motor Skills

Scooping, pouring, squishing and pinching all strengthen the small muscles in the hands and fingers, preparing children for writing and other daily tasks.

Sensory Play Ideas for Different Ages

Toddlers (Mess-Free Ideas)

• Sensory bags: Fill zip-lock bags with gel, beads or water and let them explore squishy textures without the mess.

• Bubble wrap play: Encourage popping bubbles with fingers or feet - a favourite for younger children.

• Fabric exploration: Offer soft scarves, textured cloths or ribbons for sensory discovery.

Pre-schoolers (Texture & Sound Activities)

• Rice or pasta bins: Hide small toys for them to find.

• Musical shakers: Fill containers with beans or rice for DIY instruments.

• Playdough and clay: Encourage creativity while developing fine motor skills.

Best Sensory Toys for Kids

Investing in quality sensory toys makes playtime both fun and beneficial. Our top picks include:

• Sensory Spinning Chair – Great for balance and coordination.

• Sensory Play Kits – Pre-packed kits with safe and creative tools for hands-on exploration.

• Textured Balls & Tactile Toys – Encourage touch and grip while promoting active play.

Explore our full collection of sensory toys designed to help kids develop through play.

How to Set Up a Sensory Play Area at Home

You don’t need a large space or expensive materials to create an engaging sensory play area. Here’s how:

1. Pick a safe, easy-to-clean spot – The kitchen floor or garden works perfectly.

2. Use storage bins or trays – These keep mess contained and are easy to swap out for new activities.

3. Rotate sensory toys – Keep play fresh by rotating textures, sounds and tools every week.

4. Add DIY materials – Rice, pasta or fabric scraps make inexpensive sensory fillers.

5. Always supervise play – Especially with younger children or smaller objects.

See our handpicked sensory toys that are perfect for every stage of development.